Jan Foster

Throughout its life cycle, polystyrene (styrofoam) can harm people, communities, and the planet. I will refuse styrofoam whenever I can, making sure to kindly let people know why I'm asking for alternative packaging.

Join WashU Sustainability Staff July 20th from 12pm – 1pm to learn more about how single-use plastics are used in research and healthcare and how you can begin to reduce plastic use in your lab or practice.

When possible, I will not use disposable bags when shopping, including produce bags.

I will host a watch party with friends and/or colleagues to watch and discuss a movie about plastics.

I will only use reusable containers instead of single-use plastic storage items (such as plastic wrap, single-use sandwich bags).

I will donate 4 zero waste period kits to young people with periods so that they can reduce their waste and the financial burden of menstruation while continuing their education.

I will teach my little ones about microplastics while we do a craft project together using glitter alternatives.

I will make my environmental actions visible by posting to my social media networks.

I will paint rooms in my home with low/no VOC or natural paints.

I will prepare meals at home each day without using any items packaged in single-use plastic.

I will purchase food items with the least amount of packaging.

Reducing meat consumption has many benefits; it curtails greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and soil degradation. It will also save an enormous amount of land, water use and will increase biodiversity.